Real Brides Reveal Why They're Happy They Did a First Look

To do a first look or to not do a first look? That is the question. For these brides though, the answer was obvious: do a first look, duh! From getting all those big group pictures out of the way to relieving some of the pressure, here's why so many brides are so keen on seeing their significant other before meeting up at the altar.

"We decided on a first look because our day-of timeline felt cramped. Seeing each other before the ceremony calmed pre-wedding jitters and allowed more time for photos and having fun with our full wedding party. It also gave us time to process a big piece of the day that might otherwise have been lost due to sensory overload in the moment. The walk down the aisle still felt every bit as special, my husband even teared up!" — Sandy

"I was glad we did the first look because it gave us a private moment to see each other for the first time, as bride and groom. When you walk down the aisle, there are over a hundred people looking at you and it's not private. Also, it's great to go straight from ceremony to cocktail hour and not have to worry about all those pictures! It was my favorite part of our wedding." — Ali

"My husband and I went back and forth about doing a first look in the weeks leading up to the wedding. On the one hand, tradition suggested we not, but on the other, we were anxious for a few quiet moments relatively alone before the ceremony. Having those moments together really eased our nerves and made the whole day seem more real." — Carrie

"For us, it was really special to be able to talk, tell each other how much we loved each other and be 'us' for a bit before the actual ceremony. Not that looks are the most important thing on your wedding day, however, it was nice to take photos while my hair and makeup were still fresh!" — Ashley

"I'm extremely happy we did a first look because it was so nice to have such an intimate moment to ourselves. It was one of two times the whole day that it was just the two of us." — Angela

"My husband and I decided to do a first look because we wanted to enjoy every ounce of our wedding! We really worked hard to make it perfect (and it was!) so enjoying our entire wedding from cocktail hour until the very end was super important to us." — Natalie

"I'm so happy we did a first look! My husband can instantly calm my nerves and seeing him, just us (plus our photographers) was like taking a deep breath on an exciting but overwhelming day." — Alexis

"After spending months picking out hors d'oeuvres, wine, music, etc. for the cocktail hour, who wants to spend the whole time taking pics? My husband and I wanted to join in on the party immediately." — Amanda

"We loved the first look idea. It was one of the few moments of the day where it was just about us and no one else was around. We didn't feel rushed, and contrary to what others believe, walking down the aisle was still just as special. That was the first time he saw me with my veil on!" — Jessica